Housing provider urges schools to offer pupils vocational lessons

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Circle Housing Old Ford is urging schools across the capital to consider offering pupils who are falling behind in mainstream education the option of a vocational training course.

One resident who has already benefited from getting practical experience alongside traditional academia is 16 year old Sammy Islam from Bethnal Green. He started to miss lessons and fell behind with school work before his mother and teachers enrolled him onto the provider’s training initiative, which helps disadvantaged school children between 14 and 16 years old.

Since last September, Sammy has attended practical workshops on the Locton Estate, Bow, twice-a week alongside his academic studies at Morpeth School. From carpentry to plumbing, he has learnt a range of skills and gained a vocational qualification, which could pave the way for a career in the building industry.

Rick Levene, Construction Tutor for Circle Housing Old Ford said: “Sammy has shown tremendous dedication and his attendance record on the course has been exemplary - he is a great example for other young people to follow.

“We would encourage other schools across London with pupils who are struggling in mainstream education – like Sammy - to consider offering them a more vocational route alongside their academic studies.”

Sammy will begin a painting and decorating course this September at Hackney Community College, which he hopes will be the next stepping stone to a promising career. He said: “I am a hands-on sort of person and the course has really suited me, my confidence has improved a lot. I really enjoy painting and decorating and hope I can make a career out of it.”

His mother Reshma Khanom said: “Sammy was having a difficult time at school and his attendance started to suffer. However, since attending the course his attitude has completely changed. He’s much happier and has learnt lots of practical skills. It has been a success in every way.”

In the past year alone Circle Housing has helped around 300 people into employment across the capital.

For more information about vocational courses contact the provider on 020 8980 5632.